A specialist dementia care home in Widnes, St Patrick’s, has raised hundreds of pounds for a new sensory room after its staff took part in a seven mile fundraising walk from St Helens RFC’s stadium, Langtree Park, to Widnes Vikings’ Select Security Stadium.

17 members of staff, all dressed in fancy dress, headed south from the home of the Saints, collecting money from by-passers along the way, before being warmly welcomed back by family, friends, and representatives of the Widnes Vikings after three hours of walking.

St Patrick’s will be hoping to add to their tally on Sunday 18th September, after being invited by Widnes Vikings to host a bucket collection at their Super League clash against rivals St Helens.

The home is part of the national social care charity, Community Integrated Care. They were inspired to take on this challenge following the charity’s pioneering partnership with Widnes Vikings. This sees people supported at St Patrick’s enjoy activity and reminiscence sessions every fortnight, with specialist coaches from the club and legendary former players.

The new and improved sensory room will offer the people supported at the home a relaxing space, and the opportunity to enjoy stimulating activity sessions.

This is the latest in a number of exciting achievements by the care home, who held a summer fayre, which was attended by hundreds of family members, people from the local community, and supporters. Guests enjoyed a host of entertainment at the event, including a special appearance by popular country and western singer Sandra Currie.

Nicola Lloyd, Manager of St Patrick’s, says: “The support we’ve received has blown us away. Everybody we saw on our walk was more than happy to support us, and whilst we’re still counting up the total money raised, the people we support will have a much better place to live.”

She adds: “We’re grateful to the Vikings for inviting us to the game against St Helens, and hope the supporters will kindly donate any spare change they may have. It really will change the lives of the people we support.”